Saudi Arabia's ACWA Power opens key power plant in Turkey

Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdoan addressing the delegation at the inauguration Kirikkale

Saudi Arabia headquartered ACWA Power has inaugurated the $1bn Kirikkale Power Plant in Turkey.

The Combined Cycle Power Plant has a capacity of 1,000 MW and is capable of meeting three percent of the total electricity demand in Turkey.

The plant is the first and largest of Saudi energy investments in Turkey’s Power Sector.

Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip ErdoÄŸan officiated the inauguration ceremony, which was also attended among others by Berat Albayrak, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources.

“The inauguration of this project is a clear sign of the growth and modernisation in Turkey which is making the country set for continued development. We applaud the Turkish authorities on delivering a key infrastructure project to drive the economy forward for future generations,” said ACWA Power Chairman, Mohammad Abunayyan.

Thamer Al Sharhan, Managing Director, ACWA Power attributed the project’s success to the support from various stakeholders including the Energy Ministry, Regulator (EPDK), TEIAS, Kirikkale Governor and Municipality.

“The entire process has been efficient and we would like to thank MENR, EPDK, TEIAS and Governor for support. This project is an ideal example of the power of public-private partnerships in fulfilling national ambitions,” said Al Sharhan.

More than 2,000 local Engineers and workers were employed in the construction process, which began in December, 2014.

The KÄ±rÄ±kkale Power Plant will provide a steady and reliable energy to Turkey’s national grid. The project is also among the top three most efficient combined cycle gas power plants in Turkey, significantly contributing to the country’s economy through savings in gas consumption.

Kirikkale project holds immense value to the Turkish community and its efficiency and design are testament to ACWA Power’s expertise in projects that provide reliable delivery of power and water at the lowest possible cost,” said Abid Hussain Malik, Managing Director of ACWA Power in Turkey.

“The team has worked hard to meet the highest quality standards and utilise best practices. We are delighted to have played a vital role in bolstering the Turkish economy and are confident of a bright future ahead.”

The project is expected to continue supporting local employment and the economy of KÄ±rÄ±kkale.